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Al Adamsen

From Maximizing “Time with Kids” to Maximizing Social Impact

I’ve known Al Adamsen for over a decade and have always admired his dedication to elevating those around him and his commitment to using data for good. Over the years, we’ve worked together on presentations, committees, and have become friends. Al has a rare gift for finding value in every interaction, and his work in HR technology and people analytics has always reflected that ethos of care and responsibility. Now, as he navigates a new pivot in his life, Al is doubling down on his mission to make a lasting, positive impact.

 

The Catalyst for Change

 

Al is a globally recognized expert in HR technology, people analytics, and workforce planning. He pioneered these fields early on, creating the first people analytics capability

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at Gap Inc. in the early 2000s. Since then, he’s worn many hats, from consultant and advisor to community builder and analyst. Yet, over the past two decades, one priority has remained on top: being a fully present and engaged father, shaping his professional life around maximizing time with his two children, now in their early twenties. He consciously chose to be in the “lifestyle business” that allowed him to be there for them. His “North Star” of family time created strong bonds, and he has no regrets about putting his family first.

 

However, as his children are now independent adults, Al finds himself at a crossroads. With more time and energy, he’s asking, “What will I do once I become an empty nester?” This question became the catalyst for his next big pivot: moving from a father-centered lifestyle to one focused on making far-reaching social impact.

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New Direction

 

Al’s pivot is rooted in his desire to contribute to the world in new, powerful ways. He continues to be committed to People Data for Good - promoting the ethical and responsible use of people data, analytics, and AI for the benefit of individuals, teams, groups, organizations and society at large”. He also is specifically focused on helping young people select their educational experiences and career choices in a world full of uncertainty.

 

His intention is to help provide clarity and confidence to people as they navigate what he calls The Age of Perpetual Disruption. As he says, “the people I'm trying to impact include my historical audience of professionals (business leaders, HR organizations, hiring managers, etc.) as well as a new audience of students and early career professionals.  In fact, I want to create better alignment between these groups. Organizations are struggling to find talent in many job families, and many young people are struggling to decide what to do to make a living. My new project is meant to call out some of these gaps and explore ideas on how to better fill them over time.” 

 

He has launched The Future of Work Project, an initiative where he is interviewing business leaders, both inside and outside of HR, about their organization’s preparedness to anticipate and respond to ongoing change.  This research is closely tied to his People Data for Good podcast and an upcoming book provocatively titled What the F Are We Doing? In the book, Al explores the significant gaps between individual development, employer needs, educational offerings, and policy decisions. His goal is to bridge these gaps and offer practical solutions for young professionals entering a rapidly changing workforce.

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Advice for Those Pivoting

 

Al’s current direction is shaped by the support of a trusted group of advisors—a personal “Board of Directors” as he calls them. This diverse group includes professionals with expertise in finance, law, and accounting, as well as friends who understand him personally and professionally. Al emphasizes that no one should go through a major life or career pivot alone.

 

Here are his seven key pieces of advice for those considering a pivot:

 

  1. Be selfish in a kind way: Know thyself. Be honest about what you want and need.

  2. Don’t do it alone: Proactively engage others. They’ll help guide you through tough decisions.

  3. Have a plan: Create a vision and roadmap with clear goals and milestones.

  4. Document and iterate: Write down your goals and milestones.  Share them with others, track progress, and change as needed... and celebrate the small wins along the way.

  5. Find accountability partners: Identify trusted people who will help you stay true to your commitments. Trust others with your vulnerabilities and rely on your network for support.

  6. Commit fully: When you decide to pivot, do it with courage, creativity, and consistency.

  7. Trust yourself: Believe in your ability to learn, adapt, and improve.

 

Ultimately, Al believes that pivoting is a natural part of life—one that requires letting go, leaning in, and embracing both personal growth and professional development. As Al continues his own journey, he offers this wisdom to others: trust the process, build your support system, and, most importantly, have the courage to step into your power.

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